ALL WE HAVE IS RIGHT NOW
Even though, my mind has gone blurry,
even though, your name might escape me,
even though, I can’t make you coffee
like I used to,
I’m so happy you’re here,
sit with me for a time,
take my hand,
share the warmth of your kindness,
the warmth of your heart,
I hope you recognize me,
the me I was before
this blurred state
consumed me,
when my dignity and grace were intact,
when my giving spirit and smile defined me,
when my words were accessible,
so much has been taken,
in truth, the edges of my days
often feel like unsafe cliffs
where nothing can save me
from a treacherous fall,
yet, I do find delight
in momentary joys,
my caregiver and I sing old familiar tunes,
the words rising from unknown wells
deep in my mind’s recesses,
we keep a balloon aloft,
back and forth it floats,
a blissful, playful interlude,
I guess we’re all trying to keep things aloft,
balloons,
songs,
hopes,
each other,
all we have is right now.
all we have is each other.
This poem was inspired by my friend, Diane Rogers,
who is a compassionate, selfless caregiver.
Diane provides care for the wonderful woman in the photo.
It’s written in first person, but is only my interpretation
of what a person with Alzheimer’s Disease might wish to express.
Just Poetry and Prose 
This is so poignant, yet it deeply and respectfully honors the abundance of a full life, still manifesting under its new form. You have surely closely imagined the beautiful words that could be spoken, or felt, by a person with memory loss. Great admiration for the generous caregivers in our world!
Thank you, Judy. We have so much more to learn about those suffering with Alzheimer’s. Until there is a cure, we can do our best to care and understand. Diane exemplifies all the best ways to do just that.
And your interpretation is beautiful. Someone’s personhood is not lost due to dementia especially if those around them meets them in the present reality. I hope many see this poem and find peace through it.
Thank you, Maureen. Their present reality presents so many challenges. May we all continue to learn and provide the patience and understanding they need.